SOCCER
DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE
Summer
Cup
"Formerly known as the FSSA U/23 League, created to keep college
student athletes at the top of their game and teach the ideals of sportsmanship
and fair play while promoting South Florida's most talented young soccer
players"
MATCH REPORTS | Crónica de los partidos
Scoring Leaders
| PLAYER | TEAM | GOALS |
| OCAMPO, Christian | LAUDERDALE SC | 9 |
| ANDERSON, Patrick | MIAMI COALITION | 5 |
| SUAREZ, Alvaro | PSN | 4 |
| TOLEDO, Andy | AMERICAN UNITED | 4 |
| VALENZUELA, Fernando | PSN | 4 |
| WALSH, Diego | STRIKE FORCE | 4 |
| WILSON, Adam | STRIKE FORCE | 4 |
| ASOREY, Matias | STRIKE FORCE | 3 |
| BECERO, Eduardo | PSN | 3 |
| ISSACS, Jeremi | SUPERKICKS | 3 |
| KHALIL, Nasser | MIAMI UNITED | 3 |
| NWADIKE, ChiChi | MIAMI UNITED | 3 |
| RODRIGUEZ, Victor | SF BORRUSIA | 3 |
| ROJAS, James | LAUDERDALE SC | 3 |
| ROMERO, Ezequiel | SF BORRUSIA | 3 |
| ZIGNANO, Lorenzo | AMERICAN UNITED | 3 |
Strike Force pummeled bottom club Coalition without breaking a sweat. Strike Force, led by Alfredo Suarez and Juan Yalet easily brushed aside Coalition resistance to seize control of the match. Before the half hour, Coalition were already three goals down and with nothing to play for, they barely put up a fight in the second half putting a fitting end to a frustrating campaign. With 4 goals from Diego Walsh, a pair from Adam Wilson, and one each from Matias Asorey and Pablo Gentile, Strike Force easily qualified for the playoffs with the rout.
United were on the rise and came into today's match needing to win by three clear goals to give them a chance to qualify for the playoff round, and the task seemed achievable as they visited bottom club, PSN. In the early going, United forced much of the pressure toward Ferryros's goal, but pesky PSN answered with several counter attacks that hinted of things to come. A pair of chances from ChiChi Nwadike reaffirmed United's necessity to win, but fine goaltending from Ferryros and the woodwork denied the striker a chance to break the ice. PSN responded with a handful of forays of their own, narrowly missing on two diving header attempts from Estrada and Valenzuela. Then the crossbar denied them as well on another glorious chance from Becero. Towards 40 minutes, United took advantage of some slack marking to produce an elegant build up along the left flank. Nick Serrano's perfect cross was met by Nasser Khalil to bang home. Moments later, substitute Hans Neuman took full advantage of another breakdown in PSN's central defense as he burst through the middle and fired United into a 2-goal lead on the stroke of halftime. All the conditions seemed set for United as they looked on their way to accomplishing that much needed 3-goal victory that would keep them in the playoff hunt. But they underestimated the resiliency of a Patriot team playing only for pride. Coach Charlie Castillo ignited the fire within his troops and masterminded a furious PSN fightback. Inside the first 5 minutes of the second stanza, an Eduardo Becero double from the right side drew PSN on level terms. Swelling in confidence, PSN surged forward with dreams of playing the playoff spoiler and earning their first victory of the 2002 campaign. It wasn't long before United's defense began to crumble as their desperation turned to disorganization. Gaping holes in United's back line were exposed time and time again, and on 62 minutes, St. Thomas University's Fernando Valenzuela started a personal goal scoring spree for his PSN side. A natural hat trick plus one, for the striker sealed United's doom as PSN roared to a 4-2 lead with four unanswered goals. Valenzuela grabbed his first with a blast from the left, then his second as he curled an outside of the foot rip from 12 yards out. A brief flurry from United as they tried to regain some composure, ended up in a ChiChi Nwadike penalty kick, but Valenzuela answered twice more for PSN who were not to be denied their first 3 points of the season. In stoppage time, Nwadike grabbed another goal with a fierce shot from outside the box, but the damage was done and United go crashing out of the playoff picture, ahead of their final regular season contest with SuperKicks. Next up for PSN, the playoff spoilers, a match against mighty Miami Strike Force.
Borrusia came in to this match-up needing a victory to qualify for the play-offs, and they looked well on their way after scoring inside the game's first five minutes with a Carlos Diaz rebound goal. But the cautious hosts threw their weight behind the ball and packed in their defense to withstand Strike Force's seige. The visitors were patient and moved their lines forward to seize control of midfield. They applied pressure at will as Borrusia dropped further back closer to the goal defended by Matt Bergantzel. A couple of Arturo Lopez flashing runs on the left produced some anxious moments for Borrusia, but Bergantzel was up to the challenge. On 29 minutes, Strike Force tried from outside, Diego Walsh's long distance effort going inches wide. Borrusia continued to soak up the pressure, but the searing heat was taking its toll as they looked to their bench for relief. Taking advantage of the changes, Strike Force created its most dangerous chances. A foray by Matias Asorey ended with a tragic finish, but he made up for it seconds later going on the counter attack from a corner kick the other way, Asorey maneuvered his way to the left edge, eluded Bergantzel, and crossed to a wide open Eric Vasquez who slotted home the equalizer. Sensing a momentary weakness, Strike Force poured on the pressure drawing two dangerous free kicks from outside the penalty area. The first by Yalet forced a magnificent save from Bergantzel, the second from Vasquez was kept away by Bergantzel at full stretch. On the other side of half time, Strike Force grabbed a deserved lead as Yalet was on the end of an Asorey cross with a diving header that bounced over Bergantzel who left his feet too early. Seconds later, Adam Wilson looked to extend the lead as he crossed dangerously but his effort, although tantalizingly close, ended just over the bar. After that, the match settled down as both sides lowered the pace trying to deal with the intense heat. Strike Force seemed better suited and protected the ball while always looking dangerous enough to occupy Borrusia's defenders. Borrusia with all to play for, faced elimination but could not bother Thomas Myers, Strike Force's goaltender. As the seconds ticked away on Borrusia's faint play-off hopes, frustration mounted. Finally Wesley Louissaint was sent off, signaling the end of Borrusia's fight. A dreadful ending to a forgettable season from last year's top marksman, who this year was sent off more times than he found the net for his team. Thanks to a heroic fightback from American United, Borrusia still cling to faint play-off hopes, but their fate is in the hands of other teams as they finish the regular season with a 3-3-1 record. Meanwhile, Strike Force move into a 3-way tie for the final play-off spot with Borrusia and SuperKicks but with two games in hand.
The holders followed up last week's stunning defeat with a confident 11-0 drubbing of PSN. The match began with a more fluid Lauderdale midfield boosted in part by having already qualified for the play-offs thanks to Borrusia's loss earlier in the day. A brave Palm Springs North side enjoyed the early possession and deflected as much pressure as they could but were soon overrun by Lauderdale's eager attackers. It took 22 minutes for the champions to resist the heat and take the lead. Sheldon Russel was the recipient of some fine setting up work from the league's top scorer, Christian Ocampo, who found a cutting Russel with a clever outside of the foot pass in traffic. Russel made no mistake as he drilled past a helpless Camilo Arana. Even with the lead, Lauderdale suffered long periods of imprecision until Alejandro Pissarello was inserted. He immediately raised the level of intensity and motivated his side into attack. On 36 minutes, Pissarello was credited with his first goal since joining the club when he received a short corner and launched a looping shot from an impossible angle that eluded Arana and slipped into the goal. PSN moved its lines forward in a desperate attempt to close the gap, but the maneuver proved costly, since it left space for Ocampo and company to operate. Ocampo had two incredibly tragic misses before Gemayel Aquino finally solved the PSN offside trap with a pair of identical goals in first half stoppage time. In the second half, Lauderdale surged forward sensing a rout. Ocampo, looking to make amends after his subpar first half performance, responded with a natural hat-trick inside the first 10 minutes of the second frame. The first from the penalty spot, the second after a series of nifty moves, and the third from a rebound after a goalmouth scramble. His three goals vaulting him into sole possession of the goal scoring title for the moment. Lauderdale's Francisco Pistoni finally found the score sheet himself after a 70 yard run and finish, his long awaited first goal since November of last year. PSN were really on the ropes now and were reeling defensively as Lauderdale poured on the style shrugging off the intense heat and any PSN defenders in their way. Every counter attack looked like a jail break as huge numbers of Lauderdale players invaded PSN's scantly defended penalty area. On one of those countless forays, James Rojas worked himself open on the right and crossed to Pissarello, who deftly let the ball travel between his legs to Jamie Meeroff. Meeroff cut back to his right and emphatically hammered home into the side netting. All this happening before 60 minutes. A feeble PSN attack sputtered to create some joy from this thorough pasting, but every foray left them exposed at the back, ending up in more trouble for Arana. Towards the end of the match, PSN faded as Lauderdale tilted the scales. James Rojas scored easily to make it an even ten goals, and then set up goalkeeper, Juan Pablo Clerc with a clever heel flick. Clerc awkwardly rounded Arana and scored. The match thankfully ended on that note, as the astonished goaltender continued his celebration of his first ever goal. The goaltending combination of Jimmy Middleton and Juan Pablo Clerc was credited with their third shutout. With the win, Lauderdale clinch a playoff spot and reclaimed the points lead heading into their final showdown against second-place American United. With the loss, PSN move into last place in the standings, following up their improbable play-off run last year with a disappointing effort in this year's tournament.
American United came into today's match as the only remaining unbeaten. SuperKicks were looking to change that and creep themselves up in the standings in the process. In the early going it was an intriguing match-up of contrasting styles. American with its short passing game and tight possession against SuperKicks' devastating counter attack and rabid defense. As expected, American enjoyed the early possession but rarely looked dangerous. SuperKicks counter punched cautiously as they looked slowed by the boiling heat. At a glance it appeared a stalemate as American's intimidating presence provoked a timid response from the visitors. But that all changed on the stroke of half time. Jeremi Issacs burst out on the break up the middle and found Richardson Fils streaking in on the right, he cut his defender and teased a cross to the back post where Lindsey Denis was waiting. Denis rose and directed his header into the upper corner for a goal of astonishing beauty. The goal was like a slap in the face, igniting an angry response from American. They surged forward but without clarity and organization. In the second half, things turned worse for American as Salazar was judged to have fouled Ymeric Sanon, and the SuperKicks were awarded a penalty. Kevin Diveto converted with perfect placement to put his side up 2-0. But five minutes later, American were back in business as a tireless Juan Rivera crossed to Oscar Gil to smash home from close range. With 30 minutes to go, SuperKicks bunkered in to soak up American's assault. On 65 minutes, Guerra fired from outside a shot destined for the upper corner but Corcia managed to deflect it for a corner kick with an outstanding reflex save. Then SuperKicks responded with an incredibly dangerous counter attack that ended with Fils missing just wide. Then Gil again broke free but his shot sailed harmlessly over Corcia's fingertips and over the bar. SuperKicks survived. Then Giorgio Guerrero fired a free kick that flashed tantalizingly close. And SuperKicks survived again. Tension mounted as every ball was disputed with extra emphasis as American pushed for the equalizer. And SuperKicks survived. Then finally the hosts managed to work themselves out of the clutches of the American attack, but Denis first and then Fils second, failed to score on threatening breakaways. The SuperKicks would rue those lost chances, as American threw everyone into a last ditch attack. In stoppage time, defender Alejandro Sanchez was left all alone at the right edge with a perfect pass from Rivera. Sanchez smashed home the equalizer as time expired only to be mobbed by deliriously happy teammates, earning American a tie and preserving their unbeaten streak for another week. With the draw, both teams move themselves into the play-off picture heading into the last weekend.
In a battle between two struggling Miami sides, Coalition awoke a sleeping giant as United managed their first ever league victory with a stylish rout. United has steadily improved its play over the last several weeks and finally turned in a positive result last Sunday with a dramatic stoppage time equalizer earning them their first point. Coalition has steadily declined since a promising start and has shown signs of falling apart over the last several matches. Today nine-man Coalition looked completely out of sorts from the early going and surrendered a soft goal on a back pass blunder allowing Ugo Nwadike to notch the first of two. United had their way in midfield and enjoyed long stretches of possession. Steve Colamarino, Andy Lavin, and ChiChi Nwadike all chimed in with goals as Coalition's resistance melted. At 0-6 down, Coalition finally got on the board. Tricky Patrick Anderson converted a penalty kick, but was later sent off as his frustration took over. Nasser Khalil added a pair of goals as United sealed up a resounding victory to move them out of last place for the first time this season. United will look to build upon its excellent form of late against last place PSN and still clings to faint play-off hopes if it can manage to win its last two matches. Next up for Coalition is a date with Strike Force to mercifully end a long and disappointing season.
On paper, Borussia were expecting, but a humble Miami United side were on the lookout for their first points of the season. In a wide open match, it took only 1 minute for the first real scoring chance, Ezequiel Romero for Borrusia latched onto a difficult cross by Alberto Sanchez, but his volley was high and wide. United replied with a long range strike from Julio Guzman, which was saved on the rebound by defender Mike Werle, after Bergantzel was beaten. On 17 minutes, United defied the heavy pressure with a glorious run from ChiChi Nwadike, who weaved his way down the left flank and crossed dangerously, but the intended target, Andy Lavin unfortunately fell down. In the early going both sides traded chances, but in the middle of the half neither side showed desire as the pace of the match slowed to a crawl. Finally, on the half hour, Romero threw caution to the wind and surged into the attack, his dizzying moves creating space for a open look, but a sprawling save by Balsano kept the sheet clean. Moments later, Christian Nelson got loose on a breakaway for Borussia and although Balsano made the save, he was judged to have committed a foul on the striker. Nelson left the match injured on the play, and Chael Soler stepped up to take the free kick, but his blast was blocked by the wall. Again the rhythm of the match fell, as neither side desired to risk getting caught off balance. Only a brief flurry towards the break from Borussia provided any danger. Three times Balsano to the rescue on Romero, Sanchez, and Guidotti. Seconds after the break, Guidotti broke the ice, drilling a right footed blast passed Balsano for revenge. Two minutes later, Josh Kirk crossed midfield for United and hit a bomb that Bergantzel managed to tip over the bar. Both sides seemed content with the result, and neither looked adventurous for a good half hour. Borussia enjoyed most of the possession but could not crack the United defense. Most of their chances came from shots outside the area, with many of those off target, while the visitors seemed hesitant to bring players into the attack as they wilted in the searing heat. The dull and lifeless second half was instantly brought to life on 83 minutes, when Felipe Pires stole an errant ball and caressed a pass to a wide open Andy Lavin, who kept his balance this time and fired passed Carlos Edet with a cool finish. A moment later, Kirk stole a ball at midfield and hit an enterprising shot that was deflected for a corner kick, but nothing came of it. A desperate Borrusia urged its lines forward and Agusto Alegre looked to have fired them back in the lead, but his shot was saved by Balsano and the assistant's flag was up for offside. With the point, Borrusia hold they tenuous grasp on the third playoff spot with one game remaining. For United, the draw gave them their first point of the campaign and moved them temporarily out of the cellar.
American were on a mission to capture the top spot in the standings against bottom dwellers, Miami Coalition, and it only took 2 minutes as Oscar Gil shredded the Coalition defense before being brought down for a penalty. Jean Carlo Guerra just got his shot passed Ezequiel Zapata to open the scoring. American enjoyed all the possession and were nearly unopposed in the midfield by a retreating Coalition. A pair of John Pulido chances tilted the scales heavily in favor of American as they poured on the pressure. Staggering Coalition were pinned back deep in their zone until a quarter hour, when finally the ever dangerous Patrick Anderson broke free to create a pair of chances for the side from Miami. First a well struck free kick that just cleared the bar and then a pass to a silky Kester Medford whose shot was saved by a sprawling Mario Aycart. On 23 minutes, the Coalition defense caved in again. Oscar Gil scoring on the end of a Juan Rivera free kick from the right edge with a spectacular diving header. American looked like they would run away with the match with several dangerous flurries. First Andy Toledo shot inches wide, then Rivera beat Zapata with a brilliant free kick but he could not beat the woodwork. American piled on more pressure, and Toledo burst through to tuck in off the break. No time for early celebrations, as mere seconds later, Kester Medford cruised through the American defense beating three men along the way, to finish coolly against a flailing Aycart. In the second half, American coasted with their two-goal advantage, but a pesky Coalition were not left for dead. On 71 minutes, Antuane Arguez fired a tremendous side volley into the roof of the net that got the crowd to their feet, and one minute later, Patrick Anderson drew Coalition level as Janak Altidore committed a penalty and was sent off. On level terms at 3-3 and with a man advantage, Coalition were forced to attack to keep their playoffs dreams alive. But in the end, 10-man American grabbed the spoils as Fitz Clarke nodded home on 85 minutes to grad his second consecutive game winning goal. With the win, American move into sole possession of first place and move closer to qualifying for the playoffs with two weeks to go. With the loss, Miami Coalition move ever so close to playoff elimination.
Strike Force and Lauderdale renewed an old rivalry in the third match of the day. Talented Strike Force pinned Lauderdale in their own end in the early going and seemed quicker to every ball and stronger in every challenge. A nervous Lauderdale defense caved in and soaked up the pressure but could not find that trademark possession that had sustained them over their impressive 4-game win streak. Against the run of play, Diego Rojas for Lauderdale found some space behind the Strike Force defense on his first foray passed midfield. He cut into the box and fired from a tight angle, his shot thundered against the crossbar and fell to an onrushing Guy Trenard who hammered home from close range to open the scoring on the half hour. Four minutes later, an unfortunate Sheldon Russel stumble allowed Alfredo Suarez to tie the score. Just 5 minutes later, Strike Force turned the tables after another horrible Edwin Ocampo blunder allowed Matias Asorey to fire his Miami side in the lead to stay. With the advantage, Strike Force dictated the pace to a bewildered Lauderdale who seemed outclassed at times. The champions were fortunate not to give up another pair of goals as an excellent Jimmy Middleton was forced into a couple of heroic saves to keep things close into the break. During half time, a fierce rain soaked the pitch before the warriors returned for part two of this football drama. But in the second half it was more of the same, as a staggering Lauderdale, who never could right themselves, tried everything to get back in the match. Things took a turn for the worse on 49 minutes, as the champions were reduced to 10 when Phillip Chauca received his second booking. Strike Force replied swiftly taking advantage for Juan Yalet on 50 minutes to emphatically fire Strike Force on their way after a furious flurry in the box. Lauderdale surged forward and a gritty Diego Rojas run drew a penalty kick for the holders. Striker Christian Ocampo fired passed Montoya to cut the lead to one. Down a man, Lauderdale worked doubly hard displaying the heart of a champion. Twice Ocampo was robbed by the Miami defense as he weaved his way into shooting range. Then Gemayel Aquino was robbed by a steady Montoya. But a fourth defensive miscue sealed Lauderdale's fate as Juan Yalet scored with a classy fake and finish with just three minutes to go. With the loss, Lauderdale come crashing down from the top spot, leaving American United as the only remaining unbeaten in the tournament. With the victory, Strike Force grab a much needed three points to move ever closer to the playoffs.
PSN were in desperate need of a positive result going in to today's tilt with the SuperKicks, who were reeling from a costly defeat in midweek. The Patriots looked well on their way to recovering last year's form when with just two minutes gone, David Estrada eluded the offside trap and cleaned up his own rebound to put PSN in the lead. On a quarter of an hour, Alvaro Suarez continued his torrid personal scoring pace with another free kick goal that took a fortunate deflection before beating Corcia. Sparked by the result, SuperKicks finally asserted themselves and rushed out on the break taking advantage of the blinding speed of their frontrunners. Denis Lindsey and Richardson Fils each had wonderful chances to score denied by impatience and brilliant goalkeeping from Carlos Ferryros. Then it was Reginald Merisier's turn, but his efforts met with the same results. On the half hour mark, the match turned upside down as a Fils breakway forced a professional foul from Wilver Canales who was given his marching orders. Nothing came of the ensuing free kick, but the damage was done as PSN were reduced to 10 men. Five minutes later, Fils fired a sensational volley passed Ferryros after a long cross from the right. The back post service found Fils unmarked as he crushed a ferocious volley into the back of the net. An unstoppable Fils broke free again at the left post, but his clean strike was wide of the mark. The inspiration Fils went in again on 41 minutes but his effort was cleared off the line by an equally heroic David Cabrera, a hint of things to come. Then the wheels came off of the Patriot wagon, when Ferryros came way off his line to stop another Fils breakaway. He did well to clear but was judged to have used his hands outside of the penalty area earning him a red card. Captain Reyes argued his side's cause and was unceremoniously dismissed himself. Big trouble now for PSN with just 8 men and no goalkeeper, they were forced to protect a slim one goal lead against a furious SuperKicks attack. With Cabrera making his first lifetime appearance in goal, his inexperience at the position showed as Ymeric Sanon eluded him easily to slot the equalizer after weaving his way through the left side of the defense as time expired in the half. In the second half, a brave Patriot side looked to protect the point by throwing all eight men behind the ball and hoping for a defensive lapse the other way. With all to play for, the SuperKicks showed surprising patience and unbelievable caution as they attacked the short side of the field against shorthanded PSN. With all the possession and nearly unopposed midfield dominance, the SuperKicks simply could not find a way passed the packed Patriot defense. Then a dangerous Estrada worked his way into the heart of the penalty area on 55 minutes and was taken down for a penalty kick. It was exactly what was needed if PSN were going to take home the victory against all odds. Sure-footed Alvaro Suarez, scorer of 5 previous goals in the tournament (3 of them from the penalty spot) coolly slotted the historic spot kick to his right, but Corcia flashed over to block the kick and stop his second consecutive penalty in five days time. Deflated by the tragic miss, the Patriots lost their inspiration and fell deeper and deeper into their own end to withstand the SuperKicks renewed efforts to take the lead. They soaked up an amazing amount of pressure as the seconds slowly ticked off the clock. As the weary legs of 8-man PSN began to fail them, their inspiration arrived in the form of Cabrera who turned in a magnificent performance in his debut in goal. A revelation, Cabrera repelled wave after wave of attacks with gallant courage, bravely diving at attacker's feet, and unorthodox methods, using every part of his body to deflect the ball away from goal. His flamboyant style added untold frustration to a desperate SuperKicks attack, which showed no signs of slowing up. A fabulous diving save on Denis Lindsey raised eyebrows. Then a stoke of luck and the post, the goalkeeper's best friend, bailed out the newcomer, when Peterson Rosier fired passed Cabrera but the post said, "No." Another corner kick, one of many, fell to Rivera, denied again and again by Cabrera with a variety of kick saves. It was no fluke, as Cabrera continued to dazzle the crowd and bedevil the SuperKicks with sensational saves and goalmouth antics. Flustered slightly, the SuperKicks really piled on the pressure bringing on more strikers off the bench. The big question now was how long could Cabrera and his brave troops hold out? Rivera answered the question on 75 minutes. His perfect centering pass found a well placed Kevin Diveto 6 yards out who fired inside the post to end Cabrera's honeymoon. Thirty seconds later, Rivera bagged a goal of his own to condemn the Patriots to certain defeat. A tireless Estrada used all his remaining energy to break into the clear against six defenders but he flashed his shot just wide. The effort signaled the end of PSN's resistance as they were overrun in the closing moments by Peterson Rosier and Denis Lindsey who each tallied goals in stoppage time for the final margin.
In the second midweek clash, the highly touted football of both sides was outdone by the peculiar way the match unfolded. After a hard-hitting anxious few moments, American began by putting pressure on the Kickers, spurred on by the dynamic play of John Pulido and Lorenzo Zignano. But American seemed ill at ease with the pace and power of the hosts, and as the pace of the match settled, the Kickers began to assert themselves more, though it was still relatively even. An early run and shot by Pulido set the tone, but it was an easy save for Bergantzel. A pair of free kicks from either side inside the first quarter hour would be as close as the team's would get to glory. Then a stroke of brilliant improvisation as Gustavo Campos latched onto a Zignano cross with a bicycle kick that was stopped by Chael Soler in midair to reduce the danger. Despite the fact that there were really no significant chances to speak of early on, there was drama when last season's top scorer, Wesley Louissaint was sent off for a second bookable offense in the middle of the pitch. This meant Borussia would have a man disadvantage for 72 minutes. Regardless of the fact that they were with 10 men, Borrusia took control of the match and created the lion's share of the chances. Right away, a Chael Soler free kick blast seemed destined for the top corner, but flew just past the bar. Then younger brother, Christian Soler managed to find some room in between American's back six to fire at Aycart, but the nervous netminder made the save and gobbled up the rebound. An untimely injury to Ronald Rodriguez meant that Borrusia would have to look to its bench for inspiration in a tight affair. But finally, American realized their strength in numbers, and Andy Toledo ducked inside of the box and had time to set up his left foot, but his shot left much to be desired as it cleared the fences. On the other side of half time, the Kickers suffered another blow when lone striker Christian Soler received his second yellow for a mistimed studs up tackle and was sent his marching orders by the referee. American responded cautiously with an intricate string of passes culminating in a shot for Oscar Gil that went tragically wide. American finally opened their account against nine-man Kickers when Barry University's Fitzgerald Clark received the ball about 25 yards out and hammered a cannon-strike that glanced in off the right post on 53 minutes. It was a tremendous finish. Right after, Borrusia's Christian Nelson came agonizingly close to stealing the equalizer, but a fortunate bounce saved Aycart. Twelve minutes later, Borrusia's plight became even more desperate as defensive stalwart, Anthony Louissaint joined his younger brother in the referee's book, sent off for receiving two yellows for professional fouls in a two-minute span. Despite the numerical superiority, American rarely threatened in the second half, but were deserved victors for the sheer quality of Clark's goal--the only difference in the match, which promised more than it delivered.
The much anticipated rematch of the memorable 1999 finals played at Lockhart Stadium was a bizarre affair, which featured curious decisions by the officiating crew rather than the breath-taking football drama that was expected. The two sides felt each other out for the lion’s share of the opening ten minutes. Then Guy Trenard launched a speculative drive from just outside the box, which was brought down by a SuperKicks defender inside the box by a clear hand ball that was inexplicably not given. A pair of counter-attacks at either end caused more than a few fans to hold their breath, but it in the end, they came to nothing as both sides continued to sputter. The holders did their best to surge into their trademark possession, but SuperKicks defenders were massed in large numbers at the back looking to hit out on the break. A James Rojas free kick from way out swerved towards the frame but skipped just over the bar defended by Chris Corcia. After the half hour, Lauderdale seemed to steady themselves, GK Jimmy Middleton was rarely troubled, but they could not solve the puzzle of SuperKick's well organized back five. Neither side looked close to scoring as the half came to a close, but a bit of confusion allowed Ymeric Sanon space to try a fierce shot that tore out the side netting just to the wide side of Middleton's near post. Lauderdale hit out straight away after the break looking to go up on the SuperKicks, and it was a devilish run by Marco Antonio Pineda that forced a two fisted save from Corcia at the near post for a corner kick, but nothing came of it. At 60 minutes, the SuperKicks claimed the lead. A Ryan Morrissey free kick from his own end made a tricky bounce which fooled Nelson Esteves and landed to Jeremi Issacs who rolled it to an onrushing Peterson Rosier to hammer home. The goal sparked a furious rally from Lauderdale. First, striker Sheldon Russel was brought down in the box, but Lauderdale captain, Glen James' feeble attempt was saved by Corcia who flashed out to his right. At last Lauderdale hit back with a bit of absolute brilliance. Rojas filtered the ball inside to Russel who held off the hard challenge of Morrissey to leave it for Rojas who with a deft flick found Christian Ocampo slashing inside. Ocampo turned and fired a shot under duress, which trickled in past Corcia who managed to get a glove on it but could not manage to keep it out of his net. The equalizer seemed to take the wind out of SuperKick's sails, and a string of curious decisions led to untamed frustrations. With 15 minutes remaining, Lauderdale turned the tables. A long pass ahead by Glen James found Sheldon Russel behind the defense. He beat the offside trap and had only to beat the goaltender to the ball. As he poked the ball past Corcia who was way out of the box, Russel was recklessly cut down from behind. As the ball somehow found its way beyond the goal line to signal that Lauderdale had taken the lead, their was some confusion as to the referee decision on the play. Was it a foul? Was it a goal? Was it offside? The referee pointed to the halfway line, and in a rush of blood, Issacs furiously pleaded his case before being given his marching orders. Morrissey followed soon thereafter, and SuperKicks were reduced to 9 men. Despite being two men down, the SuperKicks kept possession and control of the midfield through to the end. They created danger towards full time as GK Juan Pablo Clerc unbelievably let a harmless back pass slip between his legs, but he reacted quickly enough to steal the equalizer from Rosier's foot. With the responsibility of attacking on their shoulders, and two less players on the pitch, SuperKicks never looked quite up to the task as they went tumbling to defeat.
In the opening match of the day, an undermanned Strike Force was upset by SuperKicks who leap-frogged them in the standings. This intriguing match-up was started with a light drizzle but the sun broke through the clouds very quickly. Unfortunately, the unexpectedly clear weather did not help either side who struggled with ideas to get forward and struggled to maintain intensity at times. On 18 minutes, against the flow, the quality of Strike Force's lone forward, Adam Wilson shone through after a brilliant combination with Alfredo Suarez and Marcos Colman helped 8-man Strike Force take the early advantage. But it would not last long, as Reginald Merisier banged home a loose ball at the top of the box to equalize for full strength SuperKicks. Although undermanned, Strike Force enjoyed much of the purposeful possession and created some excellent chances to regain the lead. A pair of Matias Asorey free kicks and another Wilson turn and shot near the top of the box, kept the SuperKicks defenders pinned down in their own end. But Jason Miller answered with a fine run and shot that ended up just wide of the post. On the stroke of halftime with both sides on 10-men thanks to an injury to Miller, Eric Rivera nearly fired SuperKicks into the lead, but a desperate kick save by Thomas Myers preserved the tie into the break. In the second half, Ryan Morrissey powered a long range free kick that was tipped over by Myers. Moments later Rivera had a goal disallowed for a controversial foul call. Then the match seemed to dull a bit as both sides showed signs of succumbing to the suffocating humidity and the great individual effort exerted in the first frame. But the pace quickened again as both looked to steal the three points. First, an Ordoñez shot was turned past the post by Chris Corcia, and then a Merisier breakaway was snuffed out by Myers. Finally on 66 minutes, the leadership of Morrissey proved the difference as his superb through ball into space caught a streaking Peterson Rosier, who found SuperKicks striker, Ymeric Sanon, inside to slot home the game winner. Rosier, himself had another golden opportunity go begging as he botched a breakaway run after appeals for offside were not heard. As the seconds ticked away so did Strike Force's hopes of equalizing as they fell to SuperKicks who have now won two in a row to climb back in the hunt after a disastrous opening day defeat.
This match got off to a great pace, with American United immediately going after the opening goal. On just 7 minutes, an Andy Toledo shot provoked a fine save from the Miami United goaltender. But is was Miami United who would steal the opener against the run of play on 14 minutes as a quick counter attack by Julio Guzman found Andre Lemmers alone for a neat finish at the back post. American continued to mount the pressure into the 18th minute when Lorenzo Zignano fired a shot that was tipped onto the woodwork and tracked down by the Miami goalkeeper. A minute later, John Pulido had another shot nick the post. But on 20 minutes, Miami United resistance could hold out no longer, as Zignano worked clear on the right and received a cross which he smashed into the net with a difficult right footed half volley. Then Zignano doubled his total on 32 minutes when a Pulido shot was cleared off the line, but fell to Zignano to finish the rebound. Miami United answered back with a Steve Colamanio shot that curled towards the upper angle as the American defenders held their breath, but the effort fell inches wide. After the break, Andy Toledo finished a 3-on-1 attack with a crisp far post shot to apparently settle matters. But Miami United would make the final moments interesting as Julio Guzman got free on a quick 2-on-1 breakaway to bring the visitors within one, but time ran out on the brave Miami United fightback.
The champions conceded their first goal of the tournament after just 47 seconds with a Michael John-Williams goal that beat Jimmy Middleton. Thereafter, Lauderdale seemed to settle down and get into its rhythmic possession game. Missing two key players due to suspension, the holders looked to their top scorer to turn the tide, and on 25 minutes, an inspired Christian Ocampo finished a gorgeous solo run off the right edge by squeezing his shot past Coalition goaltender, Ezequiel Zapata. Five minutes later, Diego Rojas was chopped down in the penalty area as he turned the corner on his defender. Ocampo stepped up and slotted home to put Lauderdale in the lead. With the advantage, Lauderdale still seemed to struggle for the midfield clarity it had enjoyed in its previous matches. Then substitute, Junior Trenard entered the match and instantly provided the dynamic play and midfield leadership that Lauderdale was so obviously missing. He was instrumental in creating the third when he found his way to the by-line in traffic to cross brilliantly to an unmarked Marlando Forrester, who leaped to nod home on 35 minutes. Then two minutes later, a sharp cross from Ocampo was met by Trenard, who smashed home a right footed blast at the back post as he crashed in from the left flank. With the game seemingly out of reach in the second half, Lauderdale enjoyed the possession without looking to add to the scoreline. Then matters worsened for Coalition as Jermaine Spence was sent off for his second yellow card. But the man-disadvantage seemed to spark the hosts who moved forward to expose the Lauderdale defense. On 69 minutes, Damane Ludford crossed midfield and noticed Juan Pablo Clerc, Lauderdale's goaltender, was way off his line. He unleashed a venomous swerving blast that bested Clerc, who was feverishly back pedaling to recover his position. James Rojas settled matters for Lauderdale when his 25 meter free kick hummed past Zapata into the upper corner.
The match was billed to be hotly contested, and the teams delivered on the promise. Although many tipped Borrusia to take the three points, it was PSN who looked more enterprising from the opening whistle. On 8 minutes, slippery David Estrada forced a fine save from Borrusia's Matt Bergantzel, who stretched to palm a clever chip just over the bar. Then a Fernando Valenzuela free kick blast was deflected by Bergantzel. Then Borrusia began to turn the tide with the nifty moves of an inspired Ezequiel Romero. On 14 minutes, Borrusia finally surged forward, and their persistent pressure led to a Ronald Rodriguez shot that fell harmlessly wide. On 18 minutes, Romero showed why he is such a feared striker for FIU. He danced his way through the PSN defense, eluding markers with his silky moves, then wiping away the feeble resistance of the PSN goaltender with a cut-back touch, he buried his left footed shot into the empty net. The tense match got even more exciting after the goal because PSN surged forward to equalize, leaving space for Romero to work his magic. But PSN were unfortunate on 29 minutes, when Guiliano Bonopaladino launched a rocket from beyond 30 meters which beat Bergantzel's fingertips but struck the woodwork with such ferocity that the fans thought July 4th fireworks were being set off prematurely. Then the match bogged down into a midfield struggle as both sides tried to get into shooting range. Towards the end of the first half, more fireworks. For PSN, Valenzuela created some space along the right, but his fierce low cross could not find its target, and for Borrusia, a brilliant run and cross by Brandon Desilva found Romero at the back post, but his shot was saved twice by the heroic Carlos Ferryros. In the second half, PSN went looking for the equalizer but could not get close enough to create any danger for Bergantzel. With frustration mounting, they were suddenly reduced to 10 men, when Maoyin Laos ruthlessly challenged Anthony Louissaint. With the man advantage, substitute striker, Victor Rodriguez doubled Borrusia's lead with a glorious solo run leaving 3 defenders in his wake as he weaved his way into the box and finished with a classy twist of his right foot. It was a goal of tremendous quality. PSN tried to close the gap with a pair of set pieces, one of which went wasted and the other was cleared off the line. Then for Borrusia, Rodriguez combined with Carlos Cadena, but his effort could only strike the left post and bounce out. On 75 minutes, PSN's tireless David Estrada went into the box and was cut down for a penalty kick. Alvaro Suarez converted the spot kick to make the score 2-1, but PSN's Edwin Rivera would receive his second yellow card shortly thereafter, leaving his side with just 9 men. The unstoppable Romero quickly took advantage and powered a left footed strike past Ferryros after some pretty approach work to get free in the box. With the win, Borrusia keep the top spot in the standings ahead of their midweek clash with American United on Wednesday night.
The only match of the weekend was played in a terrible rainstorm. With the field soaked in certain areas and completely under water in others, the match was underway. Borrusia immediately took the initiative and applied the initial pressure, but Coalition weathered the storm, and began to make some ambitious runs forward after thwarting the talented Borrusia midfield. Against the run of play, Jermaine Spence put the visitors on top on 12 minutes, his 65 meter blast found its way to the back of the net, catching GK Matt Bergantzel off his line. The ball entered just beneath the crossbar and just above Bergantzel's fingerips for a goal of tremendous quality. The match was detained for 5 minutes to repair the net, as Bergantzel's herculean effort to stop the ball landed the goalkeeper in the net, tangled up like "catch of the day." With the goal, Coalition began to keep control of the possession, but Borrusia's response was expected, and just 13 minutes later, Christian Soler had a golden opportunity to equalize, but a big time save from Coalition goaltender, Ezequiel Zapata, kept the score-sheet clean. Borrusia poured on the pressure and were rewarded just 3 minutes later with a free kick from the left edge of the penalty area. Ezequiel Romero's pinpoint cross was met by Soler whose glancing header struck the upper right post and bounded into the net to draw Borrusia on level terms. Now with more confidence, Borrusia began to dictate the play. On 38 minutes, Wesley Louissaint went through, but he was brought down by Zapata for a penalty kick. Alan Sanchez neatly placed his spot kick to the left of Zapata to put Borrusia on top to stay. One minute later, Soler appeared to have extended Borrusia's lead, but his clever effort was cleared off the line by Hernan Osorio after Zapata had been beaten. Louissaint finally got on the score-sheet in the 41st minute. He turned quickly on his defender and tapped a shot passed the wrong-footed Zapata. Appeals for a handball went begging, although it did appear the goal came with the aid of deception. With the lead, Borrusia poured on the style and took complete command of the match, but it was Spence again who would cause a scare just two minutes on the other side of halftime. He found some space in the box after a free kick set play, wheeled, and fired a low shot that snuck in at the left post, but the flag was up for offside to disallow the goal. The rest of the match was played in a driving rain. As the conditions began to worsen, so did the football, as neither side looked capable of mounting any possession with all the standing water on the field. Then the clouds parted and the sun came out for an instant as if to witness first-hand the glorious piece of skill that would come. Borrusia's Carlos Cadena seized this magical moment to produce a magnificent goal. On 76 minutes, Cadena started the move with a delicate touch to Soler who found Romero. Romero danced with his defender to create space for the cross, which picked out Cadena. Cadena then brought the ball under control with his left and brought his right foot around the back of his left to clip the ball above the onrushing Zapata and into the upper corner of the net. After that superb goal, neither side looked anxious to produce any more danger as if to pay homage to such a world class finish, and the match ended without further incident.
American United started out the aggressor but it was PSN who would create the first quality chance. On 15 minutes, Eduardo Becero fired a shot destined for goal but Mario Aycart stopped the blast with a sure-handed save. United replied a moment later with Juan Rivera, but his shot was pushed wide by Carlos Ferreyros for a corner kick. United applied intense pressure from that moment on and grabbed the opening goal on 22 minutes as Renato Bragauca drew out Ferreyros and slotted to Kevin Lima who finished into the empty net. On the half hour, American doubled their lead. Lorenzo Zignano beguiled his defender then found Andy Toledo who appeared to be in an offside position. Toledo easily rounded Ferreyros and finished again into the empty net. On 41 minutes, the game seemed nearly decided as Juan Rivera carved a path to goal through a crowd of defenders on a dream solo run and classy finish to make it 3-0 at the break. Left for dead, a gutsy PSN side absorbed some more pressure in the second half but began to gain confidence in attack. A perfect Walter Ramirez penalty kick and a glorious Becero long range strike closed the margin to 3-2 after 67 minutes. But after falling down to 10-men with Becero being sent off, the PSN fightback fell short with Andy Toledo and Lorenzo Zignano adding goals ten minutes apart for the final margin of victory. With the win, American United set up a long awaited showdown with Lauderdale Soccer Club in a rematch of last year's championship match.
The much anticipated clash between these two powerhouses turned out to be a defensive struggle on an afternoon of goals at rain-soaked Mills Pond Park. The two classic rivals started the match at a blistering pace. Back and forth, it went as each side's attacks sputtered in the midfield swamp of defenders. But on 12 minutes a great run from James Rojas set Sheldon Grissle up for a long range effort that whistled just wide for Lauderdale. Borrusia replied on their next foray as Ezequiel Romero sliced through the heart of Lauderdale's defense and found Christian Soler at the top of the box. His shot zoomed past the onrushing Jimmy Middleton but could only strike the underside of the crossbar and bound out harmlessly out of danger. After an anxious few moments, the match bogged down into a tactical affair as both sides probed cautiously not willing to give up space behind their well organized defenses. On 22 minutes, rock solid Nelson Esteves intercepted a pass at midfield and cross dangerously to Lauderdale's scoring ace, Christian Ocampo. Ocampo neatly took the ball on his chest, turned sharply, and raced past his defender. As he reached the corner of the penalty area, he drilled a hard strike into the opposite side netting from a tight angle before being mobbed by his teammates. Mere moments later, Lauderdale would be reduced to 10 men as Edwin Ocampo's clumsy foul on Soler was judged a red card offense. Lauderdale soaked up the pressure and Middleton was rarely tested except on a rare set piece or early cross. As the half winded down, Lauderdale continued to frustrate the Borrusia attackers with its short passing game helping to keep possession and pressure away from their goal. In the second half, Lauderdale continued to possess the ball and keep Borrusia at bay with timely counter attacks to stretch the field. The best chance for Lauderdale to kill off the game came in the 67th minute as Christian Ocampo set up Grissle for a shot from the center of the box, but the forward pulled it just wide. Then Victor Rodriguez came up big stopping a Rojas free-kick blast with a lunging save. Finally, Borrusia made a move for the equalizer as the pouring rain stopped suddenly. DangerousWesley Louissaint found a loose ball in the box but Juan Pablo Clerc stoned him by blocking the shot with his chest as he raced off his line. Shortly thereafter Borrusia frustrations culminated in Alberto Sanchez being sent off for his second bookable offense. The hotly contested struggle in midfield now became even as both sides played with 10 men. Forced to play nearly 70 minutes with a man disadvantage, Lauderdale finally seized control of the match. Near the end of regulation time, Lauderdale captain Glen James pulled off a stroke of brilliance as he dribbled past countless Borrusia defenders in a glorious solo run reminiscent of Diego Maradona's 1986 run through the England defense. As he positioned himself to shoot what would have easily been the goal of the tournament, Rodriguez raced out of his box to recklessly smash into James and knock him to the ground. Now reduced to nine men, Borrusia were forced to put MF Patricio Gonzalez in goal. Diego Rojas pulled the ensuing free-kick inches wide as a frozen Gonzalez looked on. Lauderdale then resisted the final 5 minutes of injury time to claim sole possession of the top spot in anticipation of their long awaited rematch with American United.
SuperKicks bounced back from their opening day defeat with a sparkling effort in the initial quarter hour. On just 7 minutes, lightening quick Jeremi Issacs latched onto a long penetrating pass from the right, cruised past the defender and rifled a blast into the roof of the net defended by Ezequiel Zapata. Moments later another Issacs laser appeared to have gone in but hit the side netting from nearly the same angle, but SuperKicks would not have to wait long to grab their second as in a flash, Reginald Merisier burst passed Leonard Chong and drilled a high hard shot on 16 minutes. The speed and pace of the SuperKicks' unstoppable attacking duo proved more than a match for Coalition who could not resist going down another goal on 41 minutes as a teasing cross from the right was met by the speedy Issacs with a glancing header just inside the left post. In the second half, the intense heat of the humid early afternoon seemed to take its toll on SuperKicks as Coalition slowly wrestled control of the match in their favor. SuperKicks were fortunate on 47 minutes not to go down a man as a glorious run by Patrick Anderson ended up in a take down from behind in the penalty area. Anderson thumped his spot kick in to give his side life and a window of hope. Brave Coalition surged forward despite the soggy conditions and the searing heat to launch wave after wave of attacks on goal. Despite dominating possession and putting intense pressure, Coalition created surprisingly few chances against the weary SuperKicks defense. Finally, just 4 minutes from full time, Juan Restrepo got onto an Anderson cross and smashed home Coalition's second, but it would be too little too late for the side from Miami as they crashed to defeat and SuperKicks desperately held on to their one-goal advantage.
From the opening whistle Strike Force mounted persistent pressure on the United defense. Under siege for the opening moments, the United goaltender, Raul Netto, turned into a one-man show. But on 16 minutes, United could hold out no longer, when Alfredo Suarez drilled a crossing shot into the right side netting to open the scoring. For the next half hour, the match became uneventful, as Strike Force dominated possession but lacked the ambition to get closer to Netto, who had a defensive wall of eight players in front of him at all times. On 41 minutes, a brilliant Eric Vasquez strike from long range caught Netto wrong-footed to double the lead. United finally launched its first attack in next minute, as Josh Kirk drilled a hard strike off the underside of the crossbar, but his shot bounced out to the relief of GK Eric Montoya. But on 44 minutes, a Mark Stephenson give-away allowed Andre Lemmers to race in alone on Montoya and bury United's first goal of the afternoon off the breakaway. But the glory would not last long for United, as Jaime Villacis surged forward and banged a shot off the post for Strike Force. In first half injury time, United's luck ran out, a series of one-touch passes at the top of the box left Adam Wilson to drill a right footed shot passed Netto. In the second half, it was more of the same as Strike Force enjoyed the lion's share of the possession and seemed to attack at will against the weary United defense. On 52 minutes, Montoya now playing on the right flank, crossed dangerously and his effort ricocheted off the crossbar. On 54 minutes, Jeff Wool now in goal for Strike Force, stoned Lemmers from close quarters as United tried desperately to bounce back. Then Netto came up big on two huge saves in a goal mouth scramble. Then on 65 minutes, United created its best chance of the game as they penetrated the offside trap and sent three forwards in on Wool with Gonzalo Cruisillat leading the break, drawing out Wool and slotting a perfect touch to Lemmers who pushed it tragically wide of the net. Buoyed by the miss, Arturo Lopez finished a classic counter-attack with a deft chip, clipping the ball into the right side netting with the outside of his boot to make the score 4-1 in favor of Strike Force. Then on 75 minutes, the rout was on as Andres Lozano scored on the end of a Wilson low cross after some crafty setting up work on the right. In the end, Crousillat had a blast saved by Wool, and Nwadike had a dangerous header off a corner kick go just above the bar as United tried to get one back, but it was not to be and the Miami United side was fortunate to finish the match not giving up another goal.
The opening game of this year's tournament featured a match-up of two teams that impressed with their late season form last year. PSN looked the more enterprising of the two during the early going and were rewarded were a free kick about 35 meters out on the half hour. Captain Alvaro Suarez hit a stunning blast that nicked the crossbar passed a helpless Ezequiel Zapata. After the break, Coalition seemed to regroup and surged forward for the equalizer, and it came quickly on 50 minutes when Hernan Osorio capitalized on a fortuitous bounce off PSN netminder, Carlos Ferreyros' chest. But the glory was short-lived, as PSN regained the advantage from a teasing Maoyin Laos corner kick, which found Juan Garcia, who rose above the defense to nod home. On 70 minutes, a brave Miami Coalition once again equalized, this time from the slippery Antuane Arquez who finished at the back post after appeals for offside went begging. But again, PSN found their way back into the lead, and inevitably last year's masters of the set piece, their third goal would come from another set play opportunity. This time, the dynamic striker David Estrada was hauled down in the penalty area, and PSN were awarded a penalty kick. Suarez thumped it into the right side netting to restore his side's one goal advantage. PSN then fell back to protect their lead, but just 5 minutes from full time, hard-fighting Coalition grabbed a well deserved equalizer after a glorious strike from sparkplug, Patrick Anderson, to salvage a point. PSN were disappointed in that they had three times held the lead and came away with only a draw as they wilted in the searing heat at Mills Pond.
This should have been a battle of heavyweights, as SF Borrusia finished 2nd in the Western Union Gold Coast first division, and SuperKicks were finalists two years ago and are back after a one year absence where they participated in the Super-Y League, but Borrusia methodically outclassed the SuperKicks defense and finished with a 4-0 rout. Last year's top scorer, Wesley Louissaint turned provider for the first Borrusia goal as his delightful pass found a streaking Christian Soler who drilled a low shot passed Carlos Castro on 20 minutes. In the second half, a Victor Rodriguez double and a Chael Soler blast provided the winning margin for Borrusia, confirming their label as title contenders with an impressive performance. Matt Bergantzel and Brandon Desilva combined in goal for the shut-out.
Newcomers, Miami United faced the daunting task of debuting against the title holders, Lauderdale Soccer Club, and their defense resisted all of 72 seconds. A brilliant give-and-go between Christian Ocampo and James Rojas caught the back-line square. Ocampo cruised in and slotted into the far right post passed the onrushing Raul Neto. On 6 minutes Hans Neuman put a scare into the champions as he carved a path into the heart of the defense only to be brought down just outside the box, but Jimmy Middleton easily saved the free kick effort. After restoring their midfield advantage, Lauderdale worked to extend their lead with the stylish Diego Rojas, the speedy Ocampo, and the delicate touches of James Rojas, but the Miami United defense held well into the second half. The champions poured on the pressure into the second half and on 61 minutes, James Rojas found a streaking Marlando Forrester on the right side. He rounded his defender and sent a low cross to Sheldon Grissle who faked right and turned brilliantly to finish with his left into the top corner just passed the outstretched fingertips of Neto. On 78 minutes, Lauderdale added to their lead and this time it was James Rojas on the end of a low cross after Guy Trenard had beguiled his defender with a dizzying array of moves near the right side of the penalty area. As the match neared the end, Lauderdale looked on its way to matching Borrusia's rout, but Dwayne Lawrence's powerful blast banged off the right post and nearly knocked the astonished Miami United goaltender to the ground as the rebound ricocheted off his face and out of bounds. Then Jamie Meeroff turned brilliantly after some setting up play from Forrester, but his strike was picked up off the line by Neto just as it was about to trickle in. On the stroke of full time, Lauderdale captain, Glen James drew a gasp from the crowd as he ripped a powerful overhead scissor-kick that was cleared off the line. Jimmy Middleton and Juan Pablo Clerc combined for the shut-out for Lauderdale.
Strikeforce are last year's PDL champions and a 3-time FYSA state champion with 2 southern regional crowns as well. American United (formerly Miami Lakes) were last year's finalists and feature a high scoring line-up with a distinctive latin flavor. The match promised something special and delivered. The crowd were delighted with the high level of play as both giants reaffirmed their quality with every touch. Strike Force enjoyed the balance of the pressure in the early going and easily took command of the midfield, but they could not find a way to Mario Aycart, American's goaltender. On 27 minutes, Strike Force finally took the lead. First, Juan Yalet crossed dangerously from the left, but his cross was over the head of the striker and ended up on Adam Wilson who crossed to a wide open Matias Asorey. The dangerous Asorey neatly tucked in his shot to the left side to open the scoring. After a set of flurries from both sides failed to amount to a scoring chance, American began to realize that they were stealing the momentum and brought their quick possession game into the Strike Force end. From there, last year's finalists picked up the pressure, and the speed of the match increased with both teams racing back and forth in search of a goal before the break. On the stroke of half-time, substitute, Rafael Reyes alertly stole the ball off GK Jeff Wool's foot as he was looking downfield to make his clearance. The horrible error proved costly as Reyes slotted home the equalizer into the empty net as time expired. The blunder seemed to spark American, which enjoyed more of the chances into the second half as a deflated Strike Force seemed to lose its cohesiveness. Both sides continued to play at an extremely high level in midfield but as they got closer to goal, their creativity seemed to fail them. As the game winded down, even the half-chances started to dry up for both sides, and even though neither side seemed capable of creating the go-ahead goal, the last five minutes were action-packed. For Strike Force, Yalet nearly forced a 3-on-1 break in on Aycart, and for American United, Andy Toledo, John Pulido, and Lorenzo Zignano all had half-chances go begging. On 88 minutes, Toledo seemingly had put his side in the winner's column but his powerful strike went inches over the bar. In the end, both sides had to be satisfied with sharing the spoils, but they confirmed their quality as title-contenders.
Updated on: JULY 14, 2002 | 14 de Julio de 2002
